HBO Max offers a variety of subscription plans starting at $9.99 per month with ads and going up to $20.99 for the ultimate ad-free experience.
Regarding streaming services, HBO Max has built a reputation for premium content, including HBO originals, blockbuster movies, and exclusive series. But with so many streaming options, you’re probably wondering, how much is HBO Max and is it worth adding to your subscription list? 📺💸 In a sea of streaming platforms, HBO Max stands out, but is it worth the price tag or just another bill weighing down your budget? Let’s break it down to help you decide if HBO Max deserves a spot in your lineup. 🚀
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How much is HBO Max a month?
HBO Max price options range depending on the level of ads and features you want. Here’s a breakdown:
- With ads: The base HBO Max subscription costs $9.99 per month. You’ll get access to the full content library but must sit through ads during playback.
- Without ads: For a more premium experience, the ad-free HBO Max plan costs $16.99 per month. This plan not only cuts out the ads but also allows downloading content for offline viewing.
- Ultimate ad-free: At $20.99 per month, this plan comes with all the bells and whistles, including 4K UHD streaming, Dolby Atmos sound, and the ability to stream on four devices simultaneously.
- B/R sports add-on: For sports fans, you can add B/R Sports for live streaming sports events and exclusive content. This add-on costs an additional $9.99 per month.
You may also find bundled deals where HBO Max is included with certain internet, phone, or cable plans, so it’s worth checking if you can get it at a reduced price.
How much is HBO Max a year?
If you’re looking to save some cash, HBO Max offers annual plans:
- With ads: The yearly plan is $99.99 (equivalent to paying for 10 months and getting two free). This is a great option if you’re OK with a few interruptions.
- Without ads: The ad-free yearly plan is $169.99, providing the same savings as the with-ads plan but without commercials.
Add-ons like B/R Sports are still available with the yearly subscription, and you can bundle these to maximize your entertainment.
Max features and add-ons to consider
With multiple tiers and options, there are a few Max features and add-ons worth considering.
Password sharing
HBO Max allows password sharing within a single household. The platform permits up to five profiles per account. All these profiles can access the service without additional charges. This makes it a solid option for families or roommates who want to share one subscription. HBO Max monitors for abuse of this feature, so sharing outside your household could lead to account restrictions.
Simultaneous streaming
With its basic plans, HBO Max supports up to two simultaneous streams. If you go for the Ultimate Ad-Free plan, you can stream on four devices simultaneously, perfect for larger families or households with different viewing preferences.
Offline streaming
HBO Max offers offline streaming, but only for users on the ad-free or Ultimate Ad-Free plans. This means you can download shows or movies to watch later without an internet connection, a feature perfect for travel or data-conscious users.
Max vs. other streaming services
How does HBO Max stack up against other streaming services regarding price and features? Let’s compare.
Max vs. Apple TV+
At $9.99 per month, Apple TV+ is cheaper than the ad-free version of HBO Max, but Apple TV+ offers far less content. While Apple TV+ is known for its quality original shows like “Ted Lasso,” HBO Max has a much larger library of TV series, movies, and documentaries. Apple TV price gives you fewer options for the same monthly spend.
Max vs. ESPN+
ESPN Plus is priced at $10.99 per month – similar to HBO Max’s ad-supported tier – but it’s focused exclusively on sports content. If you’re a sports fan who doesn’t care about HBO’s original series or movies, ESPN Plus cost may be a better fit for you. For those who want both, it may be worth combining ESPN+ with HBO Max for broader entertainment options. ESPN Plus pricing is geared more toward sports enthusiasts.
Max vs. Hulu Live
Hulu Live costs $75.99 per month, making it significantly more expensive than HBO Max. Hulu Live offers live TV channels only, which is something HBO Max doesn’t provide. The HBO Max price offers better value if live TV isn’t necessary for you. Learn more about Hulu Live cost.
Max vs. Disney+
Disney Plus is priced at $7.99 per month alone and $24.99 per month when bundled with Hulu and ESPN+, making it a great option for families looking for kid-friendly content. HBO Max has a more mature library, including its extensive HBO originals. The decision comes down to whether you want family content or premium dramas. Learn more about Disney Plus cost.
Max vs. Walmart+
Walmart Plus costs $98 per year (or $8.17 per month) and is more of a membership program that includes perks like free shipping and grocery delivery. While Walmart Plus isn’t a direct competitor to HBO Max in terms of entertainment, it’s an option if you’re looking for more practical benefits alongside some media perks through its Paramount+ add-on. Learn more about Walmart Plus pricing.
Is HBO Max worth the price?
When deciding if HBO Max is worth the price, it boils down to how much you value its content. If you love HBO’s original programming – think “Succession,” “Euphoria,” or “Game of Thrones” – then yes, HBO Max cost could easily justify itself. If you’re juggling multiple subscriptions, checking your budget before signing up is smart. Here’s how you can tell if HBO Max fits your financial plan:
- Use a budgeting tool: A service like MoneyLion can help you track your subscription expenses and determine whether adding HBO Max fits within your entertainment budget.
- Consider annual savings: If you’re committed to using HBO Max long-term, the yearly plan provides savings over the monthly option.
- Assess your streaming habits: HBO Max offers great value for money if you watch many TV and movies and want a mix of new and classic content.
Is HBO Max right for you?
At $9.99 to $20.99 per month, you get access to a massive library of shows, movies, and exclusive content that’s tough to beat. Whether you’re into award-winning dramas, big-budget blockbusters, or iconic HBO series, HBO Max brings serious value. 🏆 The key is deciding which plan fits your needs and whether your budget can handle the extra cost. With features like simultaneous streaming and offline viewing, HBO Max price is a must-have in your streaming arsenal. 🎬
FAQ
Why did HBO Max change to Max?
The service was rebranded to “Max” to reflect its expanded content library, which now includes programming from Discovery+ and other Warner Bros. media brands.
Does Max match HBO Max’s previous price?
Yes, the pricing for Max remains in line with the old HBO Max cost, starting at $9.99 per month.
Is Netflix or HBO Max cheaper?
Netflix has a range of pricing options, starting at $6.99 for its basic plan with ads, making it cheaper than HBO Max’s ad-free plan. Content and features vary between the two services.
